Arisaka Type 99 Rifle, 26 inch Barrel

The Arisaka Type 99 Short Rifle with a 26-inch barrel was the standard bolt-action service rifle used by the Imperial Japanese Army during World War II. Introduced in 1939 (the Japanese calendar year 2599), it was designed to replace the longer Type 38 by offering a more maneuverable, "short rifle" layout firing a heavier, harder-hitting cartridge. The Type 99 was the first mass-produced military rifle to feature a chrome-lined barrel and bolt face, which greatly increased corrosion resistance and eased cleaning in humid Pacific jungle environments. The flip-up ladder rear sight featured folding horizontal wings (calipers) designed to help infantry lead and shoot at low-flying enemy aircraft. A folding wire monopod attached to the lower barrel band to provide stability when firing from a prone position.